Double-Knitting Simplified: How I Made It Easier
- debsdoubleknits
- Mar 1
- 4 min read
Double Knitting Seemed Complicated—Until It Wasn't
When I first started double knitting, it seemed overwhelming. Two strands of yarn, two layers of fabric, and a chart that looked more confusing than helpful. But over time, I realized that traditional two-color double knitting is just knits and purls worked in the same color square of a chart. Once I broke it down into smaller steps, it all started to click. This guide on double knitting simplified will help you understand how to work with two colors, manage stitches, and follow a chart without confusion. In this post, I'll share the key insights that made double knitting easier for me, including common struggles and simple solutions that helped me along the way.
Understanding Double Knitting: Double Knitting Simplified
Knits and Purls: Each square on the chart represents a pair of stitches—knit in the front layer’s color and purl in the back layer’s color.
This chart shows how each square in a double-knit pattern represents a pair of stitches. Holding Yarn: Always hold the knit yarn color in front or in the same hand to keep it organized.
First Square Rule: The first color square on the chart determines the main color for that side.
Focus on One Square at a Time: Instead of worrying about the whole chart, I learned to focus on just one square at a time. This made it much easier to follow.
Checking Your Work: You can always check where you are by comparing the stitches on your needle to the row below.
Easy vs. Complex Patterns: There's no real difference between an easy and a complex pattern—you just follow the color chart!
Moving the Yarn for Knits and Purls: Always move the yarn to the front before knitting and to the back before purling. This prevents an unwanted bar from appearing on the right side of the fabric. If a bar does appear, you can simply lift it over the stitch as you reach it. Many knitters find this step confusing at first, but it just ensures that each stitch is worked in the correct color without interference.
Techniques That Made It Easier
Work in Small Sections: I found it easier to think in groups of five stitches at a time.
Holding Yarn Continental Style: I twist the purl yarn on my finger, which creates space and makes it easier to knit.
Joining Sides: There are many ways to join the sides—find one that works for you and stick with it.
If You Can 1x1 Rib, You Can Double Knit: If you can handle ribbing, you already have the basic movement down.
Cast-On & Bind-Off Choices: There are multiple ways to cast on and off—experiment and choose what feels best for you.
Mark Your Chart: I mark off five stitches at a time with crayons or highlighters and always keep a couple of rows visible for reference.
Use a Digital Tracker: If you prefer digital, programs that track rows can be a game-changer.
Looser Cast-On: I use the two-color long-tail cast-on, making sure to hold the stitches and use my thumb to create a bit of space for a looser tension.
Troubleshooting & Common Issues
Tension Lines: Holding yarn too tightly creates tension lines. If the yarn flows nicely, they are less frequent.
Fixing Tension Lines: If they do appear, you can usually work them out after finishing the project by pulling the fabric in different directions, then blocking. Anything left becomes texture!
Picking Up Stitches: If you drop a stitch, you can easily pick it up with a crochet hook. If the color is wrong, undo both knit and purl stitches and rework them.
Two Loops on Needle?: Check if you need to drop one loop over the other to complete the stitch.
More Contrast = Easier Knitting: High-contrast colors make following the pattern much easier.
Mindset & Workflow Tips
Don’t Rush: A steady rhythm is more important than speed.
Train Your Brain: Always hold the knit yarn where it’s easiest to knit first, and follow the chart rather than focusing on yarn color.
One Stitch at a Time: Thinking about the whole pattern can be overwhelming. One square at a time is all you need to focus on.
Final Thoughts: It’s Easier Than You Think!
Double knitting might seem complicated at first, but once you understand the basics and develop a rhythm, it becomes second nature. The key is to keep things simple—knits and purls, one stitch at a time, and a steady flow. Mistakes will happen, but they’re easy to fix, and every project helps build confidence. Whether you're just starting out or looking to improve your technique, trust that double knitting is a skill you can master. Keep going, and most importantly, enjoy the process!
Ready to start double knitting? Check out my Master Double Knitting Yarn Techniques: Holding the Yarns with Ease and Top 5 Essential Knitting Tools Every Double-Knitter Needs for step-by-step instructions and helpful tips!
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